St Lucia Travel Guide

St Lucia is one of the Caribbean’s most popular vacation destinations, especially for honeymooners and romantics enticed by the island’s striking natural beauty, its many wonderful resorts, and the welcoming atmosphere. St Lucia has palm-fringed beaches, the Piton mountains, and beautiful waterfalls. This draws travelers from all over the world to visit St Lucia. It is really two islands in one. Rodney Bay in the north with the modern comforts amid a beautiful bay. In the south, Soufriere, which is the heart of the region of old plantations, hidden beaches and the geologic wonder of photogenic Pitons.

Come sip on a rum cocktail, sunbathe on a white-sand beach, hike rainforest covered mountains, or try rock climbing. Everyone should have St Lucia on their travel list! To learn more about all the beautiful beaches on St Lucia, visit here. Now view our St Lucia Travel Guide to help plan your next Caribbean vacation!

St Lucia Weather – When to Visit

As with most Caribbean destinations, the winter season is the most popular time to visit St Lucia. The weather brings the crowds and prices go up, especially during the driest period from December to March. Winter has average temperatures of around 81°F. Summer is quiet and hot with July temperatures averaging 85°F.

If you’re on a budget, consider traveling to St Lucia in April thru early December. Just remember that June thru early December does see high humidity and heavy rainfall. If you are looking for dry weather and sunshine, visit in January thru June, with April thru June is going to being the least crowded time of year.

Hurricane season runs from June to October. You can expect more rain this time of year and maybe some storms.

St Lucia Attractions

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

Wander amid tropical flowers and trees at this old estate. Mineral baths date from 1784, when they were built atop hot springs so that the troops of France’s King Louis XVI could take advantage of their therapeutic effects. You can take a dip in small public pools among the nature or in the less appealing enclosed private bathhouse.

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Pigeon Island National Park

Pigeon Island can appeal to an eclectic mix of travelers. You could get a history lesson about the park’s previous occupants, or learn more about the formation of the man-made causeway that currently connects the island to the mainland. You could also attend a concert, or explore 18th century military ruins, including Fort Rodney, which affords panoramic views of the ocean and Rodney Bay. There are also some beaches and a few restaurants situated around the 44-acre national park.

Reduit Beach

St. Lucia beaches are a dime a dozen, but none are quite as loved (by travelers and locals alike) as Reduit. The expansive shoreline, glorious sunsets and close proximity to the bars, restaurants and shops of Rodney Bay make for an easygoing beach experience. Reduit is also a great place to try water sports like windsurfing and waterskiing. What it’s not ideal for, however, is honeymooners. As the most popular shore on St. Lucia, this isn’t the spot for a romantic rendezvous.

Castries Market

The Castries Market has been the capital city’s local food and flea market for the last century. Open every day except for Sunday, locals gather to sell homegrown produce and spices as well as St. Lucia-stamped souvenirs for tourists.

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Marigot Bay

There’s a reason Hollywood comes calling to Marigot Bay (scenes from the original “Dr. Doolittle,” starring Rex Harrison and “Fire Power,” starring Sophia Loren, were shot here). It’s because this gorgeous shore, just south of Castries along the central western coast, is idyllic Caribbean: complete with swaying palm trees, anchored boats, and white sand beaches. Travel guides describe Marigot as romantic and it’s true that it’s more blissfully quiet than jumping Reduit — making for a great escape.

Things to Do in St Lucia

Rainforest Adventures St Lucia Aerial Tram and Zipline Tour

Explore St Lucia’s rain forest via aerial tram and zip line. During this half-day eco-adventure, enjoy a guided nature tour that allows a bird’s eye view of the lush tropical forest. Then clip into a harness to zoom through a 10-zip line canopy tour and enjoy a hike through the rain forest accompanied by an expert adventure guide. Read more about Rain forest Adventures St Lucia Aerial Tram and Zip line Tour

St Lucia Catamaran Day Sail

Sail along the west coast of St. Lucia aboard a catamaran on this full-day excursion. Visit some of the island’s highlights, like Sulphur Springs, the region’s only drive-in volcano. See the marvelous Pitons, looming 2,000 feet (600 meters) over the coast and stop at the Diamond Botanical Gardens to view the waterfalls. After an included buffet lunch, return to the boat for a relaxing swim in the Caribbean’s tropical waters. Read more about St Lucia Catamaran Day Sail

Treetop Adventure Park Canopy Tour

Visit Treetop Adventure Park during your time on the island of St. Lucia for a family-friendly adventure in the air. You’ll zoom through the tropical rainforest on a series of 12 ziplines, including the island’s longest, fastest, and highest. When booking, select the option that matches your pickup location. Read more about Treetop Adventure Park Canopy Tour

St Lucia Champagne Sunset Cruise

Sail along the coast of St. Lucia during the Caribbean sunset during this evening excursion. Board a comfortable catamaran staffed by an expert crew as the sun sinks below the horizon. Toast the island’s beauty with complimentary champagne and nibble on the provided appetizers, watching the sky change color. After the elusive ‘green flash’, the moment right after the sun slips below the waterline, head back to the harbor. Read more about St Lucia Champagne Sunset Cruise

St Lucia Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

Board a dive boat from Marigot Bay to access some of St. Lucia’s best snorkeling spots on this tour. Use the provided mask, fins, and snorkel to explore the underwater world of shipwrecks, coral reefs, and marine life in the company of a guide. Between the two stops, dig in to a buffet lunch on board the boat. Read more about St. Lucia Marigot Bay 2-Stop Snorkeling Tour

Dasheene at Ladera $11 – 30

The terrace restaurant at Ladera resort has breathtaking, close-up views of the Pitons and the sea between them, especially beautiful at sunset. Appetizers may include silky sweet-potato-and-coconut soup or Caribbean lamb salad. Typical entrées are “fisherman’s catch” with a choice of flavored butters or sauces, shrimp Dasheene (panfried with local herbs), grilled rack of lamb with coconut risotto and curry sauce, or pan-seared fillet of beef marinated in a lime-and-pepper seasoning. Light dishes, pasta dishes, and fresh salads are also served at lunch—along with that million-dollar view. Telephone: 758-459-6623 Web: Dasheene at Ladera.

Buzz Seafood & Grill $11 – 30

Opposite the Royal St. Lucia by Rex Resorts hotel and Reduit Beach, this dining spot is part of Rodney Bay’s “restaurant central.” Starting with cool drinks and warm appetizers at the bar, diners make their way to the dining room or garden for some serious seafood or a good steak, baby back ribs, West Indian pepper-pot stew, spicy Moroccan-style lamb shanks, or simple chicken and chips. The seared yellowfin tuna, potato-crusted red snapper, and seafood creole are big hits, too. There’s also a vegetarian menu. Telephone: 758-458-0450 Web: Buzz Seafood & Grill.

The Cliff at Cap $31 – 60

Lots of non-residents eat at The Cliff at Cap, the restaurant at Cap Maison, a very smart hacienda-style hotel near St Lucia’s northern tip. Part of the reason is the open-air restaurant’s sensational clifftop location: below you, frigate birds swoop over the ocean, and the panoramic views extend to Martinique on the horizon. But the creative French/West Indian cuisine is also a big draw. At the very least, go to The Cliff at Cap for a drink: the bar has an impressive selection of rums. Telephone: 758-457-8681 Web: The Cliff at Cap.

Big Chef Steakhouse $31 – 60

This classy indoor restaurant is the most reliable bet for a really good dinner. The steaks are outstandingly tender, and the sweet potato fries are delicious. Leave room for the scrumptious puddings, which are memorable. Telephone: 758-450-0210 Web: Big Chef Steakhouse.

Best St Lucia Bars & Nightlife

Delirius

This is the most civilised watering hole in the heart of Rodney Bay Village. The elegant, horseshoe-shaped cocktail bar does lots of original martinis, caipirinhas and mojitos, using fresh fruits and herbs, and the restaurant is one of the better ones in the resort. Telephone: 758-451-3354 Web: Delirius.

Treasure Bay Casino

St Lucia’s first, and so far only, casino, located upstairs in the Baywalk Mall [pictured below], has slot machines, and roulette, blackjack and poker tables. It’s all very casual – there’s no dress code, and no passport or ID is needed to gain entry, though as the sign says at the entrance “No firearms allowed”. Telephone: 758-459-2901 Web: Treasure Bay Casino.

The Cane Bar

Sample the planet’s best aged rums in this specialty St Lucia rum bar, designed with a chic white-and-charcoal palette, glowing white bar, and comfortable, oversized furniture. The Cane Bar also provides a professional “rummelier” to aid in the selection of the expertly chosen native and international rums. Telephone: 758-456-8000 Web: The Cane Bar.

Rehab

One of St. Lucia’s most famous nightspots is Rehab, a tribute bar named after a song by singer Amy Winehouse. Rehab serves up specialty cocktails and Motown music in Rodney Bay Village, a coastal town on the northwestern tip of the island. Telephone: 758-458-4708 Web: Rehab.

Doolittle’s Restaurant & Bar

Doolittle’s site was one of the filming spots for the movie, which featured sweeping views of the nearby Marigot Bay. Located approximately 9 miles south of Castries on the western coast, Doolittle’s serves gourmet meals during the day and transforms into a tranquil bar at night. Telephone: 758-458-3323 Web: Doolittle’s Restaurant & Bar.

Best St Lucia Hotels

Tet Rouge Resort

In your modern bathroom enjoy his and her sinks and an indoor shower, Situated near the majestic Gros Piton, the property includes a large infinity swimming pool, sun deck with shade palapas, stunning sea views and sunset vistas at the pool-side bar, free parking and Wi-Fi. Exclusively for resort guests, their highly trained chef provides unforgettable St. Lucian culinary experiences in a romantic open-air setting. Many of the most popular attractions are located nearby, including the world-famous Pitons, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, botanical gardens and cocoa plantations.

East Winds St Lucia All Inclusive

East Winds Saint Lucia is a breathtaking garden-by-the-sea, planted on the island’s most picturesque sandy bay. Our Island Hideaway is Saint Lucia’s original boutique resort featuring 30 cottage style suites, tucked away among lush plants, trees and a kaleidoscope of colorful bird-life. East Winds is home to what many consider the finest beach on the island and our guests share it with very few others just like them; travelers looking for personalized care and all-inclusive service in the most authentic of Caribbean experiences.

Ladera Resort

The resort’s intimate design, with just 37 rooms and suites, offers the perfect setting for forging a connection to the beauty, romance and lifestyle of St. Lucia. Befitting the resort’s eco-friendly philosophy, each is uniquely constructed from locally harvested tropical hardwoods, stone and tile. Furniture is made on site by St. Lucian artisans. Your suite’s “open wall” gives way to a private plunge pool and magnificent views of the Pitons and Caribbean.

Villa Beach Cottages

An intimate, boutique, beachfront hotel featuring deluxe fully self-contained one and two bedrooms villa suites nestled among the coconut trees and lush tropical gardens at Choc Bay with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and offering comfortable, casual luxury with friendly, impeccable service.

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32 Comments

SeunJeremiahJuly 19, 2019 at 3:59 pm

I have never been to St Lucia and from your description it does look like a beautiful place with mind blowing experience, I love traveling and although I haven’t thought about this location until now, I would love to visit this location but firstly is this location secured and also would you suggest cashless transaction there?

Yes, St Lucia is beautiful! It is really a matter of personal preference. it is always best not to carry a lot of cash when traveling. Generally you will want to have some and use cards for the rest. Thanks for stopping by my St Lucia Travel Guide.

That’s one gorgeous island! Looks like it would be great for a sailing vacation. I see you recommend a day activity where you go sailing on a catamaran – which sounds awesome! Are there any good options if you want to sail for an extended period of time – perhaps boat rental services? I would love to sail around St Lucia!

For sailing charters, I would go with Bateau Mygo Sailing Charters. They have great ratings and offer great service. I think you will have a wonderful time sailing around St. Lucia! Thanks for visiting my St Lucia Travel Guide.

Omg the Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths look so heavenly like in a dream, I would very much like to go there especially with a dash of history alongside it having King Louis XV1’s influence there. It seems like a very popular place. I think I should plan a trip where the weather’s fine with few people to enjoy the serenity 🙂

Wow, this is so beautiful. With lush, green moutains, bright blue water, and gorgeous beaches, I understand why it should be on everyone’s travel list!! It’s a nice close flight / destination from the states. One question though, what is the currency they use? Just curious if I need to be mindful of exchange rates when visiting… Thanks so much!

Hi Aly, Thanks for visiting my St Lucia Travel Guide. St Lucia uses the EC or the Eastern Caribbean dollar. But US currency is accepted here as well. So no need to get currency exchanged. Thanks for visiting!

Great article Leahrae! St Lucia sounds beautiful! I love to travel, unfortunately, I have never been there. The closest that I got was Puerto Rico. I stayed at a friend’s house for a few months in Vieques, PR. The waterfalls in St Lucia sounds like something I have got to see. I love to travel so I may make this my next family trip for next year! You said the humidity is between 70-90 percent, I don’t know if I can handle that it seems like it would be very hard to breathe. I am very interested in visiting Diamond Falls, it looks very beautiful! Thanks for the info Leahrae!

You are very welcome Shwana, and glad you enjoyed reading the St Lucia Travel Guide. The humidity actually really doesn’t feel that bad. I guess, living in Florida has gotten me used to it maybe 🙂 The waterfalls would be the one thing not to miss on the beautiful Caribbean Island of St Lucia!

St. Lucia has been on my bucket list for years, but I somehow seem to keep missing out and opting for other travel destinations. This has put it at the forefront of my mind once again. The information here, and the photos make it look like a fabulous place to be…just as I imagined. With all that is going on in the world though I am wondering who owns this island, and also whether it is considered a safe island for travelers?

Hi Carol, St Lucia is a great Caribbean island to visit, and it is absolutely safe. Of course, when ever you travel you should always take precautions to stay safe. St Lucia is French and that is their native language. I know that you will have an absolute great time! Please let me know if you need any additional information 🙂

I’ve never been to St Lucia, and I would love to travel there. What a beautiful place to be! I’ll put this island on my bucket list for this winter! I have all the information needed to plan my trip, and I thank you for this! One of my favorite activities to do during my stay is camping on the beach:) We do this all the time so it essential for me to know more about beaches amenities. Is there a beach that suits to camping in St Lucia? It would be useful to know about it:)

Hi Daniella and thank you for reading the St Lucia Travel Guide. Yes, there is camping in St. Lucia. There are designated camping areas, and the best is going to be Anse la Liberte. The price ranges anywhere from $25 to $75 a night, depending on season. How wonderful, to camp right out on the beach! Let me know if you need any more information about Anse la Liberte.

You have sold me on St. Lucia! (You had me at the white sandy beaches.) You have done a wonderful job of explaining everything possible there is to know about this gorgeous place. The pictures you share are absolutely stunning!

My husband and I travel a lot and the one thing that is very important to us when we are on vacation is being able to get around. You have done a great job of explaining how to travel around while there.

I can’t wait to read what you write about in the future. Will you be writing about more Caribbean Islands?

This is a wonderful travel guide for St Lucia! And it looks like such a heavenly place to visit. I am been interested in going to some island in the Caribbean, and I especially like St Lucia, although you have made the decision tough! I am seeing now that the Caribbean has a lot of beautiful places, I just need to decide which island to head to. I love exploring new places of the world. Thank you for all the great information!

You are welcome, and yes it is a tough decision, as there are so many wonderful Caribbean Islands to choose from. I guess it really comes down to what you are looking for once you get there. They are all unique in their own way, and each has distinct characteristics that you might love, or not love. But I know there is a Caribbean Island perfect for everyone. If you need help deciding, just let me know 🙂

St. Lucia seems like a fantastic place to visit, especially if you like the beach. Reduit beach, especially, seems gorgeous. It is great to get a snapshot of the features, activities, restaurant, nightlife, and resorts.

They seem to have a lot of really great local cuisine. I especially liked to hear that restaurants use stuff like pumpkin and goat in the food- stuff that I wouldn’t normally eat. That adds to the whole experience for me.

I would definitely go to the Diamond Falls when I visit here! I love hot springs and mineral pools! I would spend my whole visit just soaking in some natural health. I guess I need to start planning. Thank you for all the great information!

Great travel guide! I have traveled to St. Lucia before and I absolutely loved the atmosphere. I took a tour bus around the island and enjoyed learning about the history and culture. I definitely want to go back and try all the recommendations you’ve listed here. I am glad I found your website, as I want to go back to the Caribbean. I am ready to head back to Anguilla now!

Great! You will have a great time again I am sure. I like going back to the same place a second time if I really enjoyed it the first time. Gives me a chance to see and do the things I didn’t the first time around. I seem to enjoy it more for some reason. I am sure you will too!

Excellent info. Love it. Will follow on twitter. Beautiful pages with plenty of information. St Lucia has been a spot that I’ve wanted to check out for years. I liked reading about the temps there. I would really like to visit in the winter months when it’s between 70 and 80 degrees. That would be perfect for me.

St. Lucia is absolutely beautiful ! I lived in Hawaii and St. Lucia totally reminds me of Maui with it’s untouched beauty and quaintness. I read in your review that it is a dream destination for honeymooners. Well, that sounds about right and I will definitely resort to your site before I will make that journey with my eventual significant other. Thank you for the usual exceptional breakdown. 🙂